Information searching habits of Internet users: A users’ study of Banaras Hindu University

Reports the results of a survey conducted at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) to determine the extent to which Internet users are aware and make use of the Internet. Efforts are on to find the information searching habits of Internet users. Data were collected using a questionnaire and follow-up interviews with the Internet users of three institutes and six faculties. Results show that all respondents are using Internet because of quality information they got through the Internet. Majority of respondents use Internet for research work because the university library has provided access to a large number of databases and online journals. Fifty percent of respondents search information through the search engines, whereas thirty-five percent prefer to go through the specific website/URL. Google and Altavista are more widely used search engines compared to others due to their wide coverage and user-friendly interface. About seventy percent of respondents prefer to take print out before making use of Internet material as compared to those who prefer online or CD. Thirty-five percent of respondents believe that Internet is most useful because they find good information all the time. It has also been observed that slow speed, high Internet charges, lack of training and lack of organized information are some of the factors that affect the use of Internet. Present recommendations to improve the use of Internet, including a well planned Internet literacy program and preparation of subject gateways